News
August 23, 2025
Congratulations to Alex Johnston, but here's why new record has an asterisk
Letters: 'There has been a lot of talk about South Sydney winger Alex Johnson closing in on breaking Ken Irvine's try-scoring record.'
**South Sydney's Alex Johnston Achieves Try-Scoring Milestone, But Debate Lingers**
South Sydney Rabbitohs winger Alex Johnston has etched his name further into rugby league history, achieving a remarkable feat that has sparked both celebration and debate amongst fans and commentators alike. Johnston's recent try-scoring exploits have placed him in the spotlight, drawing him closer to, and potentially even surpassing, the legendary Ken Irvine's long-standing record for the most tries scored in Australian premiership history.
The anticipation surrounding Johnston's pursuit of Irvine's record has been palpable for weeks, with each game bringing him closer to the coveted milestone. However, amidst the congratulations and accolades, a recurring question has surfaced, prompting a deeper examination of the context surrounding the achievement.
Letters to the editor and online forums have been buzzing with discussions about the validity of comparing players across different eras. Many argue that the game has evolved significantly since Irvine's time, with rule changes, increased professionalism, and differing defensive strategies all contributing to a vastly different playing field.
While acknowledging Johnston's undeniable talent and dedication, some argue that the sheer volume of games played in the modern era provides a distinct advantage compared to players from previous generations. The increased number of rounds in the regular season, coupled with the expanded finals series, offers more opportunities to score tries.
This debate doesn't diminish Johnston's accomplishment, but rather provides a nuanced perspective on record-breaking achievements in sport. It highlights the challenges of directly comparing players across different eras, where the rules, competition, and overall landscape of the game have undergone significant transformations.
Regardless of the ongoing discussions, Alex Johnston's name is now firmly entrenched in the record books. His try-scoring prowess is a testament to his skill, athleticism, and dedication to the game. While the "asterisk" debate may continue to simmer, it's undeniable that Johnston has achieved something truly special, prompting reflection on the evolution of rugby league and the legacy of its greatest players. The conversation sparked by his achievement serves as a reminder that sporting records are not just about numbers, but also about the context in which they are achieved.
South Sydney Rabbitohs winger Alex Johnston has etched his name further into rugby league history, achieving a remarkable feat that has sparked both celebration and debate amongst fans and commentators alike. Johnston's recent try-scoring exploits have placed him in the spotlight, drawing him closer to, and potentially even surpassing, the legendary Ken Irvine's long-standing record for the most tries scored in Australian premiership history.
The anticipation surrounding Johnston's pursuit of Irvine's record has been palpable for weeks, with each game bringing him closer to the coveted milestone. However, amidst the congratulations and accolades, a recurring question has surfaced, prompting a deeper examination of the context surrounding the achievement.
Letters to the editor and online forums have been buzzing with discussions about the validity of comparing players across different eras. Many argue that the game has evolved significantly since Irvine's time, with rule changes, increased professionalism, and differing defensive strategies all contributing to a vastly different playing field.
While acknowledging Johnston's undeniable talent and dedication, some argue that the sheer volume of games played in the modern era provides a distinct advantage compared to players from previous generations. The increased number of rounds in the regular season, coupled with the expanded finals series, offers more opportunities to score tries.
This debate doesn't diminish Johnston's accomplishment, but rather provides a nuanced perspective on record-breaking achievements in sport. It highlights the challenges of directly comparing players across different eras, where the rules, competition, and overall landscape of the game have undergone significant transformations.
Regardless of the ongoing discussions, Alex Johnston's name is now firmly entrenched in the record books. His try-scoring prowess is a testament to his skill, athleticism, and dedication to the game. While the "asterisk" debate may continue to simmer, it's undeniable that Johnston has achieved something truly special, prompting reflection on the evolution of rugby league and the legacy of its greatest players. The conversation sparked by his achievement serves as a reminder that sporting records are not just about numbers, but also about the context in which they are achieved.
Category:
Politics